Metro Implements Policy Banning Violent Offenders

Updated⁤ June 2, 2025

The Washington Metropolitan ⁢Area Transit Authority ⁣(WMATA) is set to enforce a new policy monday, barring individuals who commit violent or sexual offenses from using the Metro system.​ this ⁢includes trains, buses, and parking facilities.

The⁣ policy targets those who commit sex crimes, sex-related offenses, violate passenger conduct rules, or assault Metro employees, contractors, or customers. Previously, the Metro Transit Police Department could only ⁢ban individuals ‌for up to 24 hours for violating conduct rules.

Now, the WMATA ​will implement tiered penalties ⁢for​ offenders. A first offense results in a‌ 45-day ​ban. A second offense leads to a 90-day ban, and ‍a ​third offense carries a ‌one-year ban.

WMATA saeid that riders who are banned will have the prospect to appeal the decision.

WMATA indicated in March that a database would store information on banned riders, and their SmarTrip cards​ would be deactivated.

While Metro⁤ employees will not be scanning faces or checking IDs, WMATA⁣ believes its‌ personnel are capable of identifying problem passengers and contacting police if trespassing occurs. This new policy aims to improve safety and security across ⁢the⁣ Metro system, addressing concerns about violent crime and passenger⁤ conduct.